Italian Capitolino Flash newspaper has published an interview with chief of the Italian office of Diaspora Journalists` Union Hasan Isgandarov, who praises the activities of Azerbaijan`s first lady, president of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva.

In his interview, Isgandarov hails the first lady`s role in promoting Azerbaijan`s culture worldwide, and developing educational, cultural and humanitarian relations between Azerbaijan and Italy.

“First lady Mehriban Aliyeva attaches great importance to developing the arts and culture. Her activities on the international scene are irreplaceable. Due to efforts of Mehriban Aliyeva Azerbaijan`s rich culture has been presented to the world. One of the major aims of Mehriban Aliyeva is preserving the national and cultural values.”

Isgandarov hailed the attention of president of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva to protecting ancient Azerbaijani carpet weaving tradition. “Carpet weaving centres have been established in the country with the aim of passing this art to the generations to come. The Carpet Museum is being built in Azerbaijan under the initiative of Mehriban Aliyeva. The Museum of Modern Art was established, and it now features works by famous Azerbaijani artists.”

He also lauded the first lady`s initiatives to restore historical, architectural and cultural monuments in Italy.

“The Heydar Aliyev Foundation supported the repair of Hall of Philosophers at Capitoline Museum in Rome, and also contributed to the restoration of the catacombs of saint Marcellino and Pietro.”

Isgandarov touched upon first lady Mehriban Aliyeva`s recent visit to the Vatican.

He also quoted Azerbaijani ambassador in Rome Vagif Sadigov as saying that: “Italy and Azerbaijan have ancient history and rich culture. We place particular emphasis on strengthening cultural relations between the two countries.”